Bob Vylan’s “Free, Free” Chant Turns Glastonbury Into a Back‑Street Debate
Last weekend, the legendary Glastonbury Festival turned into a battleground when Pascal Robinson‑Foster, better known as Bob Vylan, took the stage and started a chorus that would make even the most seasoned festival-goers stop mid‑dance.
What Went Down
- Vylan shouted “free, free” – a phrase critics say ignited a barrage of “Palestine” chants and “Death, death to the IDF” from screaming crowds.
- BBC live‑streamers filmed the chaos, sparking a mad scramble for audience reactions.
- The BBC’s coverage left many wondering: Why broadcast a performance that could be seen as an “incitement to violence” for the entire country?
Response from the Big Pointers
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp Calls for Immediate Action
Philp slammed the lack of police response, warning that failing to act would become a “two‑tier justice” nightmare. He compared Vylan’s performance to Lucy Connolly’s earlier social media offence, insisting the same legal firepower must be applied.
Reform UK’s Richard Tice: “He’s Alphabetically Worse”
Richard Tice called out Vylan for “anti‑Semitic, anti‑racial incitement” that, in his view, was “far worse” than Connolly’s cases. “Consistency is key,” he said, demanding arrest and charges.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer Declares “Appalling Hate Speech”
Starmer, a former barrister who now heads the Crown Prosecution Service, blasted the BBC for broadcasting the fiasco, refusing to explain how such a scene was allowed to slip into the public feed. He hinted at a policy shake‑up because the nation’s values seemed breached.
Lord Austin of Dudley Raises the Flag
As the UK’s trade envoy to Israel, Lord Austin chased the incident up a level and called it “horrifying” to citizens on TV. He urged the BBC to stop broadcasting content that could “humiliate” cable‑paying viewers.
Israeli Officials Demand an Apology
Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel made it clear to GB News: the BBC’s tactics were “absolute disgrace.” “Why is the BBC holding a platform for anti‑Israel hate speech while it would swiftly cut off anti‑Muslim or far‑right content?” he asked.
Lawyers and Advocacy Groups Jump into the Fray
Israel’s Legal Arms Reach Out
Lawyers for Israel filed reports with Avon & Somerset Police, arguing that Vylan’s actions were threatening and could inspire racial hatred. Their goal: stop the blue‑cheese, “free, free” mantra from spreading further.
The Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) Backs Police Action
The CAA has its own legal team eyeing the footage, claiming it could “endanger British Jews.” They accuse the BBC of going beyond its own policing script, thereby unnecessarily empowering dangerous voices.
Political Shockwaves and Public Outcry
Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel was swift to criticize the BBC and Glastonbury alike for airing “deeply offensive” comments, while official follow‑up on the event is underway.
With Vylan still at the helm, many are whispering one fact into the wind: He’s a master of turning a music scene into a political flashpoint.
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